# interoperability

/ˌɪntɚˌɑpɚəˈbɪləti/ (US) · /ˌɪntəɹˌɒpəɹəbˈɪlɪti/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/interoperability
Updated: 2026-08-23

## Definition

the ability of different computer systems, devices, or software to work together and exchange information smoothly.

For teachers: the capacity of distinct systems, devices, or software applications to exchange and use data or operate in conjunction without special effort from the user.

## Examples

- Interoperability lets your phone connect to any Wi-Fi network.
- The new healthcare platform prioritizes interoperability so hospitals can share patient records across different software systems.
- Despite years of standardization efforts, true interoperability between competing cloud providers remains elusive, locking many enterprises into single-vendor architectures.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.